Time to plan your year

As we wind our way through January, it is time to get our plan going for the rest of the year.  Too often we are surprised by how quick the time passes and we haven't advertised our camps, haven't planned out our new ramp build, haven't worked on getting the pro tours or events at our parks and then it is too late.  This why it is important for skatepark owners to get a big calender out and start blocking time for events, camps, and construction.  These are all things that need doing now, in January as you look to how you will make the most of this year.  If you can plan your camp now, what it does is edge out the other camps that parents sign their kids up for. You are competing now with a summer that fills quickly for young skateboarders.  By getting your flyers, mailers and ads out now, you can fill your camps quickly and ensure another packed summer.  Many parenting magazines have "camp" issues that come out soon, so having advertisements ready to place in these will also help you take advantage of good advertising.  Camp ads that reach your parent's market are usually well worth the money.  Getting an article together, with photos can also help get some extra free press that helps the magazine with content, and helps you with raising awareness.  We all know that you have ideas and plans for the year, and January is a great time to get them on paper, with time committed to making them happen.  I suggest that as you are looking for ways of filling your calendar with events, look to your staff for suggestions and ideas.  Give them specifics like we need a march weekend event or weekday event and set one or two to plan it and create it.  Offer them ownership of these events and you will soon find, these could be really great things for you and your park.  Don't forget to download the local school calendars too so that you can take advantage of days off with longer hours, or special sessions.